Author
Joan Conquest
1883-1941
Joan Conquest (1883-1941) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Joan Conquest
The Hawk of Egypt
"The Hawk of Egypt" by Joan Conquest is a novel written in the early 20th century. It is set against the backdrop of Egypt, bringing to life a rich tapestry of cultural and historical elements as it follows the journey of Damaris Hethencourt, a young woman navigating the complexities of love, identity, and adventure in a foreign land. The narrative hints at her interactions with intriguing characters, including the enigmatic Hugh Carden Ali, as well as the allure and dangers of the vibrant Egyptian marketplace. The opening of the story introduces us to Damaris as she explores the bustling bazaar of Cairo, accompanied by her bulldog, Wellington. The vivid descriptions of the sights, sounds, and aromas of the market paint a picture of her surroundings and the cultural dynamics at play. As she navigates the crowd, her attention is drawn to Hugh Carden Ali, whose mixed heritage and poised demeanor intrigue her. The narrative foreshadows a burgeoning romance while touching on themes of social norms and personal struggle, especially as they pertain to Damaris’s quest for adventure amidst the vibrant chaos of the East. The stage is set for dramatic interactions, cultural clashes, and the exploration of identity, making for a compelling beginning that invites readers into a rich world of emotional and societal complexity.
Zarah the Cruel
"Zarah the Cruel" by Joan Conquest is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the titular character, Zarah, who is the daughter of an outlaw sheikh in the Arabian desert, and the complexities that arise from her unique upbringing, her beauty, and her relentless ambition. Throughout the narrative, themes of power, ambition, and the confrontation between cultures and identities are explored through Zarah's relationships and experiences. At the start of the book, we are introduced to a rich backstory that recounts the legendary oasis of the Mountains of Death and the escape of two horsemen, Mohammed-Abd and Yussuf, who are fleeing from pursuers. Years later, we see the consequences of their survival manifest in the stronghold they create in this desert, ultimately leading to the birth and raising of Zarah. The prologue sets the stage for Zarah's character, highlighting her dual heritage—Arabian and Spanish—and the challenges that come with it. As she grows up, her beauty and untamed spirit create fear and admiration among those around her, including Yussuf, who harbors a deep-seated resentment towards her. Tensions build as Zarah's cruelty and ambition threaten the fragile balance within their desert community, foreshadowing the struggles she will face as she attempts to seize control amidst shifting loyalties and the shadow of her father's legacy.
Leonie of the Jungle
"Leonie of the Jungle" by Joan Conquest is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story seems to revolve around the experiences of a young girl named Leonie, who exhibits unusual behavior, including sleepwalking and vivid dreams filled with exotic imagery, partly influenced by her Indian heritage. The interactions she has with adults and her delicate emotional state suggest underlying themes of childhood innocence, trauma, and the complexities of growing up. The opening of the novel introduces us to Leonie, a sensitive and imaginative seven-year-old girl who is upset over the death of her kitten. We see her communicate with the adults around her, particularly Sir Jonathan Cuxson, a brain specialist who appears to have a compassionate but firm demeanor. Throughout her interactions, Leonie's grief manifests in her imaginative tales of dreams that include tigers and a mysterious black woman. Her aunt, Lady Hetth, seems overwhelmed and anxious about Leonie's peculiarities, revealing both concern for her niece's well-being and her struggle with social expectations. The narrative hints at deeper issues related to Leonie's psyche and sets the stage for her emotional journey, underlining a stark contrast between the whimsical innocence of childhood and the more complex adult world surrounding her.
Desert Love
"Desert Love" by Joan Conquest is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Jill Carden, a young English woman embarking on a journey of self-discovery and adventure in the exotic setting of Egypt. With a background of privilege now stripped away, Jill is determined to seek a life filled with genuine love and experiences beyond the monotony of her previous existence. At the start of the book, Jill finds herself at a transit station in Ismailiah, Egypt, observing the vibrant mix of women in traditional dress and British soldiers preparing for their journey. Feeling bewildered and disconnected from her recent past, she reflects on her unorthodox upbringing and the loss of her father's wealth. As Jill's thoughts turn to her aspirations for love and adventure, she becomes intrigued by Hahmed, the Camel King, a formidable figure whose presence captivates her. Despite societal expectations, Jill chooses to break free from the constraints of her previous life, setting the stage for a thrilling and transformative romantic journey across the desert.