Author
A. D. (Augustine David) Crake
1836-1890
A. D. (Augustine David) Crake (1836-1890) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by A. D. (Augustine David) Crake
The Last Abbot of Glastonbury: A Tale of the Dissolution of the Monasteries
"The Last Abbot of Glastonbury: A Tale of the Dissolution of the Monasteries" by Rev. A. D. Crake is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the historical figure Richard Whiting, the last Abbot of Glastonbury, and explores the tumultuous events surrounding the dissolution of the monasteries during the reign of Henry VIII. Through Whiting's trials and tribulations, the book delves into themes of faith, loyalty, and persecution faced by religious figures during a time of significant societal change. At the start of the story, we are introduced to a cold winter night in 1524, setting an ominous tone as a desperate woman escapes into the forest with her infant child. The woman ultimately succumbs to the harsh conditions, imploring a passing yeoman to save her child, Cuthbert. The narrative then shifts ahead to 1538, introducing Richard Whiting and the community at Glastonbury Abbey, showcasing their last moments of peace before impending doom. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that the story will follow Cuthbert's journey intertwined with the fate of the Abbot as they both navigate the dangers of political intrigue and the harsh realities of the Reformation era, marked by the threat of persecution from the crown and the unraveling of monastic life.
Brian Fitz-Count: A Story of Wallingford Castle and Dorchester Abbey
"Brian Fitz-Count: A Story of Wallingford Castle and Dorchester Abbey" by A. D. Crake is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative is set during the civil war of King Stephen's reign in 1139, focusing on the titular character, Brian Fitz-Count, who is a stern and ambitious baron with a troubled past. As the story unfolds, themes of nobility, conflict, and the struggles of heritage provide insight into the darker aspects of medieval life. The opening of the story introduces the reader to Wallingford Castle, a formidable stronghold on the Thames. It establishes Brian Fitz-Count's character as he walks the castle’s ramparts, reflecting on his past and the recent loss of his child. The tension of the times is palpable, and soon after, we are introduced to the dynamics of the castle's court, including the arrival of a guest and plans for a grand hunt, foreshadowing the imminent events of intrigue and conflict. The narrative skillfully blends personal turmoil with broader historical themes, capturing the essence of mediæval society and setting the stage for the unfolding drama.
Alfgar the Dane or the Second Chronicle of Aescendune A Tale of the Days of Edmund Ironside
"Alfgar the Dane or the Second Chronicle of Aescendune" by A. D. Crake is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. Set during the early 11th century, it explores the turbulent times of Danish invasions in England, focusing on themes of identity, faith, and betrayal. The story revolves around Alfgar, the son of a Danish warrior, as he grapples with his heritage while living amongst the English after the tragic events of St. Brice's Day, when many Danes were slaughtered. The opening of the novel is structured around the diary entries of Father Cuthbert, the prior of a monastery, who provides historical context as he recounts the dark clouds of conflict hanging over England due to the Danish incursions and the instability of King Ethelred's reign. Through Cuthbert’s observations, we meet Alfgar and learn of his inner turmoil regarding his Danish lineage and the tragic fate of his mother. The former conflicts of loyalty are exacerbated by the sheriff's secretive plots leading to violence, setting a tone of impending doom. Throughout this introduction, Crake provides a rich backdrop of 11th-century England, establishing the moral dilemmas faced by characters caught between their ancestral loyalty and their current realities.
Edwy the Fair or the First Chronicle of Aescendune A Tale of the Days of Saint Dunstan
"Edwy the Fair or the First Chronicle of Æscendune" by A. D. Crake is a historical novel set in the days of the Anglo-Saxon England, likely written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the infamous figures of King Edwy, his cousin Elgiva, and the ecclesiastical power represented by the monk Dunstan, exploring the tumultuous relationship between crown and church. As the story unfolds, readers can expect to delve into themes of love, ambition, and the moral struggles faced by the characters in a time marked by political intrigue and personal sacrifice. The opening of the novel introduces us to the peaceful and picturesque setting of an English forest during May, where two brothers, Elfric and Alfred, engage in playful banter while out hunting. This idyllic moment quickly escalates into a dramatic encounter when they come to the aid of a young man, Prince Edwy, who is struggling against a wolf. This first chapter sets the stage for their imminent adventures, establishing Elfric as a brave and protective character, especially as Edwy emerges as a charming but impulsive prince. The narrative hints at the intertwining of their fates, laying a foundation for the complex dynamics of kinship, loyalty, and the burdens of leadership that will shape their intertwined destinies throughout the story.
The Rival Heirs; being the Third and Last Chronicle of Aescendune
"The Rival Heirs; being the Third and Last Chronicle of Aescendune" by A. D. Crake is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. This book follows the tumultuous life of Wilfred, an Anglo-Saxon youth, during the aftermath of the Norman Conquest in England, capturing the struggles of identity and loyalty amidst the destruction of his heritage. The narrative immerses readers in the cultural clashes between the Anglo-Saxons and Normans, emphasizing themes of honor, family, and vengeance. At the start of the story, we find ourselves in the midst of the Anglo-Saxon community as they celebrate the homecoming of warriors who have just achieved victory against the Norsemen. The protagonist, young Wilfred of Aescendune, is introduced alongside his family, including his mother, Lady Winifred. Her poignant love for her family and foreboding of her husband's impending peril set a somber tone for the unfolding events. As Wilfred's father goes off to battle the Normans, we learn of their tragic fate, followed by the power struggles and turmoil that engulf Wilfred and his family, especially after his mother's mysterious death, which is revealed to have been caused by poison. With a vow for vengeance and justice for his mother’s wrongs, Wilfred embarks on a quest that will challenge his character and beliefs against the backdrop of a fractured England. The opening chapters serve to establish an emotional connection with the characters and a sense of impending conflict, laying the groundwork for the epic tale that follows.
The House of Walderne A Tale of the Cloister and the Forest in the Days of the Barons' Wars
"The House of Walderne" by A. D. Crake is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the Barons' Wars, it follows the lives of characters connected to the old castle of Walderne, particularly Sir Hubert and Brother Martin, as they navigate the complex social and political turmoil of medieval England. The narrative blends fictional elements with historical events, creating a rich tapestry of familial strife, love, and chivalric ideals. At the start of the story, we are introduced to the location and history of Walderne Castle, as well as its inhabitants—the Lord of Walderne and his children—who experience various conflicts and romances. The prologue establishes a mysterious and poignant atmosphere surrounding the castle. The opening chapters introduce significant characters, including a knight and his squire, who navigate a snowstorm to find shelter in a band of outlaws for the night. This entangles them in themes of loyalty, identity, and the struggle between duty and desire, setting the stage for Martin's journey between the wildness of the forest and the discipline of academia.