Author
Marjorie Bowen
1888-1952
Marjorie Bowen (1888-1952) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Marjorie Bowen
The Viper of Milan: A Romance of Lombardy
"The Viper of Milan: A Romance of Lombardy" by Marjorie Bowen is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the tumultuous and politically charged environment of 14th-century Italy, the narrative focuses on the rise of Gian Galeazzo Maria Visconti, the Duke of Milan, and intertwines themes of tyranny, romance, and rebellion. The story follows characters caught in the gripping turmoil of their time, particularly highlighting the experiences of young travelers Tomaso and Vittore, as well as the infamous Visconti family. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the beauty of Lombardy, juxtaposed with the stark reality of peasant life under the oppressive rule of the Visconti. The opening scene captures a moment of tension as a cavalcade led by the Duke passes a group of downtrodden peasants, eliciting fear and awe. Young Tomaso is injured during a harrowing encounter with the Duke's enforcers, thrusting his cousin Vittore into a desperate search for help. The visceral emotions of hopelessness and longing for freedom set the tone for the unfolding drama, while establishing the malevolent presence of the Visconti as a catalyst for the characters' struggles.
Black magic : $b A tale of the rise and fall of Antichrist
No description available.
The sword decides : $b A chronicle of a queen in the Dark Ages, founded on the story of Giovanna of Naples
No description available.
The Rake's Progress
"The Rake's Progress" by Marjorie Bowen is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story seems to revolve around the lives of the Lyndwood family, particularly focusing on Lord Rose Lyndwood and the implications of his lifestyle choices on his fortunes and relationships. Central characters mentioned include Lord Lyndwood, his younger brother Marius, and their cousin, Susannah Chressham. The narrative explores themes of love, duty, and the consequences of one's actions, particularly against the backdrop of societal expectations. At the start of the narrative, Miss Susannah Chressham reflects on the lives of the Lyndwoods, particularly her sense of worry for her cousin Rose and his cousin Marius, who are both involved in financial difficulties. As Susannah writes letters and prepares for Marius's return, she expresses concern about the rumors surrounding Rose and his lifestyle in London. The opening sets the stage for a dramatic unveiling of Rose's life choices, including his potential estrangement from those he loves due to impending financial ruin. Conversations between characters hint at a rich tapestry of family dynamics, entangled fates, and the looming specter of scandal while establishing a sense of foreboding about what life changes may come with the return of the two brothers.
Prince and Heretic
"Prince and Heretic" by Marjorie Bowen is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the tumultuous backdrop of the Reformation era, focusing on the marriage of Anne of Saxony to William of Orange, a union fraught with political and religious implications. The opening chapters introduce key characters including the alchemist Magister Gustave Vanderlinden and Anne herself, providing a vivid setting of intrigue and personal conflict. The beginning of the book immerses readers in the life of Vanderlinden, whose failed alchemical experiments parallel the complexities of the royal marriage he must navigate. Through Vanderlinden's interactions with the Elector and the anticipation surrounding Anne's wedding, the narrative explores themes of faith, duty, and personal ambition. While Anne grapples with her impending marriage to a Papist prince, the alchemist remains focused on his lofty quests, setting the stage for the intertwining of their fates against the backdrop of a society on the brink of change. This opening portion effectively blends character development with the historical context and foreshadows the tensions that will arise from the marriage and its broader implications.
The Quest of Glory
"The Quest of Glory" by Marjorie Bowen is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous events of the War of the Austrian Succession in the 18th century, the story explores themes of ambition, honor, and the quest for glory through its characters. The narrative follows several French officers, particularly the passionate young lieutenant Georges d’Espagnac, as they navigate the complexities of war, aspirations, and personal relationships while stationed in Prague. The opening of "The Quest of Glory" introduces us to the bleak atmosphere of Prague during a harsh winter siege in December 1742. We meet a group of French officers, each representative of different views on honor and the meaning of glory amidst their mundane and perilous military circumstances. As they share their thoughts, the youthful idealism of Georges d'Espagnac shines through. He is fervently dedicated to the pursuit of glory for France, even as the realities of war weigh heavily on him. The story's initial chapters set the stage for the unfolding drama, emphasizing the struggles and allegiances of the characters in a setting marked by both longing for valor and the bitter hardships of war.
God and the King
"God and the King" by Marjorie Bowen is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set during the late 17th century, it explores themes of political intrigue and religious conflict in England, particularly surrounding the tumultuous period of the Glorious Revolution. The story features prominent historical figures such as King James II and William of Orange, weaving their interactions and the mounting tensions of the time into a compelling narrative filled with animosity and loyalty. The opening of the book establishes the character of King James II as he reacts to the unrest brewing in London, which is marked by celebratory noises about the recent acquittal of bishops he sees as disloyal. Through conversations with his advisor, Lord Sunderland, we see James’s growing paranoia and determination to assert his authority despite rising dissent among the Protestant populace. The narrative also introduces various court personalities, their loyalties, and the intricate web of alliances at play, setting the stage for political maneuvering and impending conflict as the tensions of the time escalate toward revolution. The detailed descriptions and richly drawn characters hint at a larger story about faith, power dynamics, and the struggle for control in a historically significant era.
I Will Maintain
"I Will Maintain" by Marjorie Bowen is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around John de Witt, a prominent figure in the politics of the Dutch Republic, as he navigates the complexities of governance while mentoring the young Prince William of Orange. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the struggles of a republic at odds with its royal lineage, as tensions arise from competing political factions. The opening of the novel presents John de Witt in a moment of deliberation with Sir William Temple, discussing the precarious state of the young prince's position and the intrigues that threaten their republic. De Witt expresses his deep sense of responsibility and commitment to the ideals of the republic, while grappling with the rising influence of the Orange party, represented by a prince whom he is both educating and safeguarding. The scene is marked by a palpable tension as the secretary Florent van Mander observes the intricate dynamics between De Witt and the prince, reflecting his ambitions and doubts about the future of their political landscape. The reader is introduced to a world teetering on the brink of conflict, underscoring each character's motivations and the overarching struggle for power within a fragile state.
The Master of Stair
"The Master of Stair" by Marjorie Bowen is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book is set against the backdrop of the harsh and beautiful Scottish Highlands, exploring themes of clan rivalry, loyalty, and the complex socio-political landscape of 17th-century Scotland. Central to the narrative are Ronald Macdonald, a proud Highlander of the Macdonald clan, and Helen Fraser, an enigmatic woman who stirs within him both admiration and conflict. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Ronald Macdonald and his men as they traverse the misty landscape of the Highlands. Shrouded in fog, they are wary of strangers, believing themselves to be perpetually at odds with the rival clan, the Campbells. Ronald’s encounter with a woman in a scarlet coat—initially presumed to be a Campbell—leads to a tense yet intriguing dialogue that reveals a deep-seated animosity between the clans. This incident sets the stage for the themes of ferocity and honor that permeate the book as characters grapple with the legacies of their feuds, and the ramifications of their decisions take shape against the impending unrest of clan politics. As the narrative unfolds, the foundations of loyalty and betrayal seem destined to intertwine.
The Governor of England
"The Governor of England" by Marjorie Bowen is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the tumultuous period leading to the English Civil War, specifically exploring the life and struggles of figures involved in the conflict, particularly Oliver Cromwell, amidst the tensions between monarchy and the emerging parliamentary power. The opening of the novel introduces a gentleman, later identified as Cromwell, who walks in a misty landscape, reflecting deeply upon his faith and the state of England. He is portrayed as a solemn character plagued by melancholy, feeling a divine call to action amid political unrest. The narrative hints at the looming conflict between the king and parliament, setting the stage for the major themes of duty, spiritual struggle, and the quest for justice that will unfold as Cromwell becomes increasingly involved in the political machinations of his time.
Kings-at-Arms
"Kings-at-Arms" by Marjorie Bowen is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book immerses readers in the political intrigues and personal dramas of the early 18th century in Northern Europe, focusing on the actions and characters of significant historical figures like Karl XII of Sweden and Peter the Great of Russia. It explores themes of power, ambition, and the complexities of leadership, particularly through the lens of its main characters, including the young Karl, who is depicted as both a promising leader and a troubled youth. At the start of the novel, the young King Karl XII of Sweden appears somewhat lost in his authority, struggling with the expectations placed upon him while dealing with the realities of his youth—arrogance and indulgence in wine and hunting. The narrative captures a crucial moment where his ambitious councilor, Count Piper, and his imposing grandmother, Queen Dowager Eleanora Edwiga, plot to influence him as threats loom from Denmark and Russia. Meanwhile, the spirited Viktoria von Falkenberg enters, whose beauty and intelligence provoke Karl's interest, challenging him to rise above his youthful distractions and embrace his destiny as a king. The initial chapters set a rich tableau of character dynamics and the tense political landscape of the time, promising a compelling exploration of royal ambitions and personal growth.
God's Playthings
"God's Playthings" by Marjorie Bowen is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative opens with the dramatic tale of James Scott, Duke of Monmouth, a historical figure involved in a rebellion against King James II of England, exploring themes of ambition, loyalty, and the tragic consequences of political intrigue. The story introduces Duke Monmouth's complex character, characterized by both noble aspirations and deep vulnerabilities, as he navigates the perils of his rebellion and confronts the bitter reality of his fate. The opening of "God's Playthings" immerses readers in a rich historical tapestry, vividly portraying the events surrounding Monmouth's rebellion. It begins with a letter from Monmouth, revealing his desperation and hope for mercy from the King, illustrated against the backdrop of betrayal and shifting loyalties. As the narrative progresses, it delves into Monmouth's internal struggles, depicting his reluctance to engage in treachery despite the urgings of others, ultimately leading to a poignant climax of existential questions about identity and legacy. This early portion effectively sets up a dramatic and emotionally charged story that promises to explore the intersections of personal ambition and tragic downfall.