Author

Paul Féval

1817-1887

Paul Féval (1817-1887) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.

Subjects

Books by Paul Féval

Maman Léo Les Habits Noirs Tome V

"Maman Léo" by Paul Féval is a novel that forms part of the eight-volume Les Habits noirs series about a criminal underground organization in 19th-century Paris. The cycle follows innocent victims wrongly accused who must clear their names using courage and intelligence. Féval dramatizes the collapse of aristocratic order after the French Revolution, depicting social instability, inheritance fraud, and secret criminal schemes. The series blends popular entertainment with literary ambition, featuring complex narrative techniques and characters with multiple identities that create mystery and suspense.

Annette Laïs

"Annette Laïs" by Paul Féval is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story begins with a detailed portrayal of the Kervigné family in Brittany, portraying their wealth, social status, and complex dynamics, particularly focusing on the young protagonist, René de Kervigné, who is on the cusp of leaving for Paris. At the start of the narrative, the reader is introduced to various family members, including René's well-to-do father and nonchalant mother, as well as the eccentricities of Uncle Bélébon and the differing opinions of his aunts on family matters. This familial gathering serves as a backdrop for discussions about wealth, expectations, and societal roles, with René caught between familial loyalty and the pressure of what lies ahead. The opening sets the stage for René's transition from his comfortable provincial life to the uncertainties of Paris, filled with both opportunities and challenges, as he grapples with his identity and aspirations amidst the eccentricities and expectations of his family.

L'avaleur de sabres Les Habits Noirs Tome VI

"L'avaleur de sabres" by Paul Féval is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story introduces a colorful cast of characters present at a fair, particularly focusing on Saladin, a young boy with the rare talent of sword swallowing, and his life influenced by his parents and the peculiar entertainment circuit of the fair. The lively setting showcases the struggles and intrigues of life among the performers, revealing a vivid tableau of aspirations, mischief, and the stark contrasts between hope and despair in Parisian society. The opening of "L'avaleur de sabres" immerses readers into the bustling environment of the Fair of Gingerbread, where a motley group of performers, including musicians and circus acts, seek to entertain and draw crowds. Saladin, who is the son of a disheveled but charismatic troupe, possesses an innate talent for impressing audiences through his sword swallowing act. However, his journey is complicated by his relationships with his father, Similor, a questionable figure of questionable morals, and Échalot, the kind-hearted former pharmacist who cares for him. Amidst bouts of laughter and criticism, Saladin grapples with his identity, ambitions, and the complexities of the world surrounding him, foreshadowing a narrative filled with both whimsy and darker undercurrents.

La vampire

"La vampire" by Paul Féval is a novel written in 1865. Set during the Cadoudal conspiracy against Napoleon Bonaparte, the story follows a mysterious series of disappearances plaguing Paris. The only explanation points to the sinister activities of Countess Marcian Gregoryi, a vampire who has arrived from Hungary. This is the second of Féval's three vampire novels, blending historical intrigue with supernatural horror as the undead countess weaves her dark influence through the French capital.

Le Bossu: Aventures de Cape et d'Épée. Volume 1

"Le Bossu: Aventures de Cape et d'Épée. Volume 1" by Paul Féval is a novel originally published as a serial in 1857. In 1699, the noble Philippe de Nevers is murdered by his treacherous cousin Gonzague, who seeks his wife and fortune. The knight Henri de Lagardère witnesses the assassination and escapes with Nevers' infant daughter, vowing revenge. Eighteen years later, disguised as a hunchback, Lagardère returns to Paris where Gonzague now wields great power, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation.

La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 6

"La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 6" by Paul Féval is a novel written in the mid-19th century. This work presents a vibrant narrative set in the lively atmosphere of Paris, focusing on the complex dynamics of public spectacles, particularly wrestling matches, while intertwining themes of ambition, entertainment, and societal observation. The main character introduced, Jean-François Vaterlot (known as Barbedor), is an impresario grappling with personal aspirations and the challenges of hosting public events, providing insight into the world of entertainment management during that era. The opening of this novel immerses readers in the bustling environment surrounding a wrestling event at the "château de la Savate," where Barbedor prepares for the anticipated return of celebrated wrestler Jean Lagard. As the scene unfolds, a colorful cast of spectators, performers, and potential conflicts emerges, highlighting the interplay of ambition and theatricality in Barbedor's life. Amidst the excitement of the forthcoming match, Barbedor is interrupted by an unsettling conversation with an enigmatic figure, foreshadowing complications that threaten his plans and hinting at deeper plots intertwined with the spectacle. These initial pages set the stage for a narrative rich with dramatic tension and vibrant descriptions that promise an engaging exploration of 19th-century Parisian society.

Le dernier chevalier

"Le dernier chevalier" by Paul Féval is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of 18th-century France, during the reign of Louis XV, and introduces characters such as M. Joseph Dupleix and M. Nicolas, intertwining their lives with the socio-political intrigues of the time. The novel likely revolves around themes of knighthood, honor, and the complexities of loyalty amidst the looming threats of revolution and foreign conflicts. At the start of the story, we are drawn into a Parisian scene marked by illness at the royal court and political tensions. The opening introduces us to key figures like M. Joseph, an esteemed but beleaguered individual, and his young companion, M. Nicolas, who assist in the unfolding drama. An awe-inspiring yet tragic incident occurs when M. Joseph is discovered alongside a dead body in his lodgings, hinting at deeper conspiracies and a quest for power that will entangle them both in remarkable adventures. As the narrative progresses, it seems to set a stage filled with betrayal, courage, and the struggle to reclaim lost glory in the midst of social upheaval and personal dilemmas.

La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 4

"La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 4" by Paul Féval is a fictional work written in the mid-19th century." This novel delves into the intricate and often murky world of marriage arrangements and social entanglements in Parisian society. Central to the story are characters like the baron du Tresnoy and the enigmatic marquise de Sainte-Croix, whose lives weave together amid themes of intrigue, deception, and the pursuit of justice. "The opening of the book introduces us to a conversation between Madame du Tresnoy and a vicomtesse, setting the tone for a tale steeped in suspense." Madame du Tresnoy recounts her husband's obsession with unraveling a mystery surrounding the marquise de Sainte-Croix, hinting at connections to gambling and clandestine activities. Through their discussion, we learn about the baron’s intense dedication to uncovering the truth, while the presence of threatening figures adds a layer of tension. As the story unfolds, the characters' motivations and a looming confrontation against the societal norms of their time emerge, promising an engaging exploration of love, betrayal, and resolution.

Les belles-de-nuit; ou, les anges de la famille. tome 2

"Les belles-de-nuit; ou, les anges de la famille. tome 2" by Paul Féval is a novel serialized between 1849-1850. Set in Brittany and Paris from 1817 to 1820, it follows the cunning Robert and his accomplices as they infiltrate the noble Penhoël family through deception. Their schemes lead to ruin, scandal, and tragedy, scattering family members across France. As mysterious young women called "belles-de-nuit" appear in Paris, the displaced family struggles to survive and reclaim their stolen inheritance from ruthless swindlers.

La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 3

"La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 3" by Paul Féval is a novel written in the mid-19th century. This work seems to delve into the intricacies of relationships, social expectations, and familial dynamics, particularly focusing on the character of Béatrice, the daughter of the retired Captain Roger, and her romantic quests and struggles in a world marked by social conventions. The opening of the novel introduces a lively gathering in the garden of the Hôtel de Mersanz, where Captain Roger and his companions are engaged in jovial conversation, drinking, and reminiscing. As they partake in their revelry, Roger reflects on the challenges of raising his daughter Béatrice, who is undergoing a transformation as she navigates the societal pressures surrounding her. The dialogue hints at Roger's protective nature and the complexities that arise from his past experiences and the burden of expectations placed upon his daughter, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of themes such as love, honor, and the quest for happiness amidst societal constraints.

Les belles-de-nuit; ou, les anges de la famille. tome 5

"Les belles-de-nuit; ou, les anges de la famille. tome 5" by Paul Féval is a novel serialized between 1849-1850. Set in Brittany and Paris from 1817 to 1820, the story follows the noble Penhoël family as they fall victim to cunning swindlers Robert and Blaise. Through deception and manipulation, the criminals infiltrate the household, destroy the family fortune, and scatter its members into Parisian poverty. Meanwhile, mysterious figures and hidden identities emerge as the displaced family struggles to survive and reclaim their lost home.

Le Bossu: Aventures de Cape et d'Épée. Volume 2

"Le Bossu: Aventures de Cape et d'Épée. Volume 2" by Paul Féval is a swashbuckling novel published in 1857. When the noble Duke of Nevers is treacherously murdered by his power-hungry cousin Philippe de Gonzague, the skilled swordsman Henri de Lagardère vows revenge and rescues Nevers' infant daughter. Eighteen years later, disguised as a hunchback, Lagardère returns to confront Gonzague, who now controls the dead duke's fortune and household, setting the stage for a dramatic reckoning in the shadows of Regency France.

Les belles-de-nuit; ou, les anges de la famille. tome 4

"Les belles-de-nuit; ou, les anges de la famille. tome 4" by Paul Féval is a novel published as a serial from 1849 to 1850. Set in Brittany and Paris between 1817 and 1820, the story follows the Penhoël family as they fall victim to cunning swindlers led by Robert, who infiltrates their manor through deception. As the family loses their fortune and homeland, mysterious young women called "Belles-de-nuit" emerge, while secrets of love, betrayal, and crime intertwine across both countryside and city.

Les belles-de-nuit; ou, les anges de la famille. tome 3

"Les belles-de-nuit; ou, les anges de la famille. tome 3" by Paul Féval is a novel serialized between 1849-1850. Set in Brittany and Paris from 1817 to 1820, it follows the Penhoël family's downfall orchestrated by cunning con artist Robert and his accomplices. Through manipulation and deceit, Robert infiltrates the noble household, ruins them financially, and forces them into Parisian exile. Meanwhile, mysterious young women called "Belles-de-nuit" emerge, and the enigmatic Montalt becomes entangled in the family's tragic fate.

La fée des grèves

"La fée des grèves" by Paul Féval is a historical adventure novel published in 1850. Set in 1450 during the final months of the Hundred Years' War, the story unfolds in the bay of Mont Saint-Michel, on the border between Brittany and Normandy. When a knight denounces the Duke of Brittany for fratricide, he becomes a hunted fugitive. His daughter, mistaken for the legendary fairy of the shores, tries to protect him while villagers and lovers become entangled in a dangerous conflict involving sieges, betrayals, and revenge.

La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 5

"La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 5" by Paul Féval is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative unfolds in a Parisian milieu filled with intrigue and societal norms, centering on Césarine de Mersanz, a young girl caught in the turmoil of familial relationships and expectations. The book explores themes of love, jealousy, and the harsh realities of social status while delving into the complexities of marriage and the consequences of unfaithfulness. At the start of the story, we meet Césarine, who is immersed in a conversation with her guardians, Philomène and Mélite, about her late mother and the tension surrounding her current home life. As they discuss her father's relationships and the enigmatic presence of her stepmother, Béatrice, Césarine struggles between her loyalty to her father and the gravity of her feelings toward the mysterious dynamics at play. The opening sets the stage for a dramatic conflict as Césarine's innocence meets the adult world's complexities; she finds herself on the brink of emotional turmoil when she confronts the reality of her family's deeper secrets and the specter of her feelings for the young lieutenant, Vital. The narrative hints at impending confrontations that will challenge Césarine's perceptions and shape her future.

La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 2

"La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 2" by Paul Féval is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The book appears to delve into themes of love, ambition, and social maneuvering, focusing on the complexities of relationships and the consequences of one's choices. Key characters introduced seem to include Flavie Soyer, who rises to prominence and becomes involved in intricate plots around marriage and personal ambitions, alongside figures like Garnier and Barbedor, who intertwine their fates in this socially rich narrative. The opening of the novel establishes a vivid setting where characters engage in both lighthearted banter and serious discussions. It introduces us to Barbedor, who seeks to navigate the complexities of relationships while revealing his associations with Garnier and Jean Lagard. The dialogue suggests underlying tensions and ambitions, particularly concerning Barbedor's past and potential future as he relates to the marquise de Sainte-Croix. The narrative hints at an array of personal dramas and aspirations intertwined with social commentary, showcasing Féval's exploration of the human experience against a backdrop of marriage fabrication and societal expectations.

Les belles-de-nuit; ou, les anges de la famille. tome 1

"Les belles-de-nuit; ou, les anges de la famille. tome 1" by Paul Féval is a novel serialized between 1849-1850. Set in Brittany and Paris from 1817 to 1820, the story follows a cunning con artist named Robert who infiltrates the noble Penhoël family by posing as a friend of their exiled eldest son. Through manipulation and deception, Robert systematically destroys the family's fortune and honor, forcing them into exile while mysterious young women called "Belles-de-nuit" emerge with secrets that may hold the key to salvation.

Le Bossu: Aventures de Cape et d'Épée. Volume 4

"Le Bossu: Aventures de Cape et d'Épée. Volume 4" by Paul Féval is a swashbuckling novel published as a serial in 1857. When the Duke of Nevers is treacherously murdered by his cousin Gonzague, the skilled swordsman Henri de Lagardère swears revenge and flees with Nevers's infant daughter. Eighteen years later, disguised as a hunchback, Lagardère returns to confront the now-powerful Gonzague in a dangerous game involving stolen identities, hidden heirs, and a promise of vengeance that echoes through the French court.

Le loup blanc

"Le loup blanc" by Paul Féval is a historical novel written in the early 19th century. The story revolves around the character of Nicolas Treml de La Tremlays, a resolute and proud Breton nobleman, as he grapples with the aftermath of his son’s death and the rising tensions in Brittany concerning royal taxes and control. The novel sets the stage for a tale of loyalty, resistance against oppression, and the significance of heritage in the context of political upheaval. The opening of "Le loup blanc" introduces us to the landscape and historical backdrop of 18th-century Brittany, illustrating the decline of its once-glorious forests and noble traditions. It depicts the character of Nicolas Treml, who is animated by fierce patriotism and a determination to protect his family's legacy against encroaching French authority. His thoughts are filled with anxiety over the well-being of his young grandson Georges, whom he fears may fall prey to the ambitions of his cousin, Hervé de Vaunoy. As Treml prepares for an uncertain journey, we witness his emotional farewell to both his heritage and the innocent future of his family, setting the tone for themes of loyalty, love, and impending conflict that will unfold throughout the novel.

Le dernier vivant

"Le dernier vivant" by Paul Féval is a novel published in serial form between 1871-1872. Written shortly after France's 1870 defeat, it follows diplomat Geoffroy de Rœux as he investigates a sinister conspiracy involving his childhood friend, judge Lucien Thibault. When Lucien suffers a mental breakdown after his wife Jeanne is accused of murder, Geoffroy uncovers a web of anonymous letters, false identities, and manipulation. The novel critiques the corruption of military suppliers whom Féval blamed for France's wartime losses.

Le Bossu: Aventures de Cape et d'Épée. Volume 3

"Le Bossu: Aventures de Cape et d'Épée. Volume 3" by Paul Féval is a swashbuckling novel originally published as a serial in 1857. When the Duke de Nevers is treacherously murdered by his cousin Philippe de Gonzague, the skilled swordsman Henri de Lagardère vows revenge and escapes with Nevers's infant daughter. Eighteen years later, disguised as a hunchback, Lagardère returns to Paris to confront the now-powerful Gonzague and restore the rightful heiress to her inheritance in this tale of deception, loyalty, and long-awaited justice.

Le Bossu: Aventures de Cape et d'Épée. Volume 5

"Le Bossu: Aventures de Cape et d'Épée. Volume 5" by Paul Féval is a swashbuckling novel originally published as a serial in 1857. When the noble Duke de Nevers is treacherously murdered by his ambitious cousin Philippe de Gonzague, the skilled swordsman Henri de Lagardère swears vengeance and rescues Nevers's infant daughter. Eighteen years later, disguised as a hunchback, Lagardère returns to Paris to expose the assassin and restore the rightful heiress to her inheritance in this tale of revenge, hidden identities, and sword fights.

La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 1

"La fabrique de mariages, Vol. 1" by Paul Féval is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story introduces readers to various characters navigating the complexities of love and marriage in society, with a particular focus on the encounters between a marriage broker named M. Garnier de Clérambault and his colleague Fromenteau. Their dialogue reveals the intricacies of matchmaking amidst comedic and poignant reflections on relationships and societal expectations. At the start of the book, two men meet in a rather desolate area of Paris, with one, M. Clérambault, being an experienced marriage broker and the other, Fromenteau, a more cynical agent who appears down on his luck. Fromenteau longs for the affection of a woman named Stéphanie, who has had multiple unsuccessful marriages, while Clérambault critiques Fromenteau's lack of social standing. As they discuss their respective situations, they touch on the themes of love, social class, and the pursuit of happiness. The narrative sets a lively tone, filled with vivid descriptions of Parisian life and introduces the intertwining lives of characters who may seek the ultimate goal of marriage, providing both humor and insight into the human condition.