Subject
British -- India -- Fiction Books
Best books
E. M. (Edward Morgan) Forster
A passage to India
"A Passage to India" by E. M. Forster is a novel published in 1924 set against the British Raj and Indian independence movement. When British visitor Adela Quested joins an expedition to the Marabar Caves with Indian physician Dr. Aziz, a disturbing incident occurs that leads to accusations of assault. The ensuing trial ignites racial tensions between Indians and British colonials, testing friendships across cultural divides and revealing the deep prejudices of the era.
Talbot Mundy
King--of the Khyber Rifles: A Romance of Adventure
"King--of the Khyber Rifles: A Romance of Adventure" by Talbot Mundy is a novel first published in 1916. British secret agent Captain Athelstan King navigates dangerous tribal territories on India's northwest frontier at the outbreak of World War I. Accompanied by the enigmatic Princess Yasmini and facing the Turkish mullah Muhammed Anim, King must confront a brewing conspiracy to incite jihad against the British Empire. Influenced by Mundy's own experiences in India and his theosophical interests, this adventure tale explores loyalty, mysticism, and intrigue along the Khyber Pass.
Rudyard Kipling
Plain Tales from the Hills
"Plain Tales from the Hills" by Rudyard Kipling is a collection of short stories published in 1888. Kipling's first story collection features forty tales of British colonial life in India, from the hill station of Simla to the plains below. Written in a deceptively simple style, these sketches introduce memorable characters like Mrs. Hauksbee, policeman Strickland, and the Soldiers Three. The stories capture various aspects of life under the British Raj, blending social comedy with darker undercurrents of colonial existence.
B. M. (Bithia Mary) Croker
A bird of passage
"A Bird of Passage" by B. M. Croker is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in the Andaman Islands and follows the experiences of Colonel Denis and his daughter, Helen, who reunite after years apart. As Helen arrives in the unique and established settlement of Port Blair, she encounters various characters, including local socialites and convicts, creating a vivid tapestry of life in this secluded part of the world. The opening of the book introduces readers to the isolated setting of Port Blair, where Colonel Denis anxiously awaits the arrival of his daughter after thirteen years apart. Through descriptive prose, the lush tropical surroundings juxtapose the grim realities of the convict settlement. We are introduced to a diverse cast, including the charming yet conceited Mr. Quentin and the mysterious photographer, Mr. Lisle, whose enigmatic past intrigues the local community. The initial chapters set the stage for Helen's experiences as she navigates her new home filled with both warmth and tension, hinting at deeper personal and social dynamics yet to unfold.
Jules Verne
Het Stoomhuis: De IJzeren Reus (1/2)
"Het Stoomhuis: De IJzeren Reus (1/2)" by Jules Verne is a novel published in 1880. A group of British colonists travels through India in a remarkable wheeled house pulled by a steam-powered mechanical elephant. Set after the Indian Rebellion of 1857, their journey takes them through temples, forests, and dangerous territories. Colonel Munro seeks revenge against the vanished rebel leader Nana Sahib, who still lurks in hiding, plotting his next move. Adventure and historical tensions collide in this tale of exploration and retribution.
Talbot Mundy
Told in the East
"Told in the East" by Talbot Mundy is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story is set during the time of the British Raj in India and revolves around the character Sergeant William Brown, who is tasked with guarding a crossroads with a small contingent of men. As tensions rise, the story delves into themes of duty, colonialism, superstition, and the brewing rebellion that is about to engulf India. The opening of the book introduces us to the harsh Indian landscape, with Sergeant Brown managing his men as a blood-red sun sets. As the tale unfolds, we see Brown grappling with the presence of a mysterious and seemingly malevolent fakir who claims to have the power to curse him. As Brown maintains order amidst a growing sense of unease, he encounters unsettling prophecies of impending bloodshed, hinting at the larger unrest that looms in the background. The tension escalates as Brown's rigid adherence to duty puts him at odds with the chaos around him, presaging the tumultuous events of the rebellion that is about to erupt. Throughout this opening, Mundy sets the stage for a gripping exploration of the intricacies of colonial rule and the myriad of forces at play within it.
B. M. (Bithia Mary) Croker
In Old Madras
"In Old Madras" by B. M. Croker is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in the tropical setting of Madras (now Chennai), focusing on Captain Geoffrey Mallender as he embarks on a quest to uncover the mystery of his uncle's thirty-year-old disappearance. The tale hints at intrigue, family secrets, and a clash between past and present, woven into the fabric of British India during a time of colonial complexity. The opening of the novel sets a vivid and atmospheric scene, where the oppressive heat of Madras contrasts with the bustling lives of its residents. Captain Mallender, a new arrival to the region, is introduced as a determined young man pacing anxiously in the offices of Brown and Brown & Co., waiting to discuss his uncle’s mysterious fate with the firm that managed his finances. As he reveals his intent to trace his long-lost uncle, the narrative delves into the initial resistance of the firm’s representatives, who harbor their own suspicions. Through Mallender’s encounter, the reader is drawn into a web of family intrigue, potential danger, and the alluring backdrop of colonial India, establishing a rich foundation for the events to come.
B. M. (Bithia Mary) Croker
Angel: A sketch in Indian ink
"Angel: A Sketch in Indian Ink" by B. M. Croker is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young girl named Angel Gascoigne, who is depicted as neglected and forlorn, living in a military cantonment in British India. As her life unfolds amid challenging family dynamics, financial struggles, and societal expectations, the narrative delves into themes of loss, desire for love, and the innocence of childhood. The opening of the novel introduces us to the oppressive environment of Ramghur as the hot season sets in. It vividly describes the desolate surroundings, focusing on Angel’s plight as she watches others from her neglected home. The reader learns about her strained relationship with her stepfather, Colonel Wilkinson, and her strong affection for her cousin, Philip Gascoigne, who attempts to bring a glimmer of happiness into her dark world. Through interactions with other characters, we see the stark contrasts in Angel’s life, highlighting her longing for acceptance and affection amid a reality filled with disregard and indifference.
Percival Christopher Wren
Snake and Sword: A Novel
"Snake and Sword: A Novel" by Percival Christopher Wren is a work of fiction likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around the intertwined fates of Colonel Matthew Devon de Warrenne, his wife Lenore, and their son Damocles, set against the backdrop of British colonial India. The themes of bravery, love, and the emotional weight of family heredity permeate the story, exploring how trauma and valor shape the lives of the characters. The opening of the novel introduces Colonel de Warrenne, who, in a moment of grief and impulsivity, pins his awarded Victoria Cross to the night-dress of his dying wife, Lenore. The narrative then shifts to a tense and gripping moment where Lenore finds herself in peril, literally standing on a snake, as she summons the courage to protect her unborn child. This event foreshadows the significant impact of fear and bravery on both Lenore's life and the life of her son, Damocles, who is born amidst tragedy. The complex relationships and emotional struggles set the stage for the analysis of fate, loss, and legacy, which will unfold as the story progresses.
Sara Jeannette Duncan
The Simple Adventures of a Memsahib
"The Simple Adventures of a Memsahib" by Sara Jeannette Duncan is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around Helen Frances Browne, formerly Miss Peachey, who transitions from a genteel life in England to becoming a memsahib in colonial India. The novel explores her experiences, relationships, and the cultural dynamics she encounters as she adapts to her new life. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to Helen Peachey, who is preparing for her marriage to George William Browne, an Anglo-Indian officer. The chapters detail her family's emotional farewells as she sets sail for India, a journey filled with hopes and anxieties. Helen is depicted as an idealistic young woman, striving to balance her previous life with her expectations as a memsahib, while young Browne navigates his responsibilities and the complexities of their impending married life. The opening sets the stage for a humorous and poignant exploration of love, cultural dislocation, and the social intricacies of British colonial society in India.
Rudyard Kipling
The story of the Gadsbys
"The Story of the Gadsbys" by Rudyard Kipling is a work of fiction written during the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around Captain Gadsby, a British Army officer, and his interactions with various characters in colonial India, particularly focusing on his relationship with Minnie Threegan, who aspires to become his wife. The story captures themes of love, societal expectations, and the complexities of relationships in a unique setting. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to characters in a Simla household, where Minnie and her friend Emma engage in lighthearted banter about Captain Gadsby, who visits their home frequently. Their conversation reveals Minnie's ambivalence towards Gadsby, whom she describes with a mix of admiration and disdain. We see her preparing for a meeting with him while grappling with her feelings. The scene also hints at social dynamics and romantic tensions, showcasing Kipling's signature blend of humor and keen observation as he sets the stage for what unfolds in their relationships. Overall, the opening portion establishes a vivid picture of life in colonial India, with its intricate social fabric and personal dramas.
Flora Annie Webster Steel
The Hosts of the Lord
"The Hosts of the Lord" by Flora Annie Steel is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story takes place in the colonial setting of British India, exploring the interactions between English officers and the local culture in the fictional town of Eshwara. The narrative likely revolves around key characters such as Captain Vincent Dering, Lieutenant Lance Carlyon, and Dr. George Dillon, alongside local figures, including the enigmatic Father Ninian Bruce and the young woman Laila Bonaventura." "The opening of "The Hosts of the Lord" introduces readers to the dynamic relationships between the Englishmen as they navigate the social and cultural complexities of their environment. Captain Dering and his companions engage in banter that highlights their differing attitudes towards the local population and their roles within the colonial framework. As they journey through Eshwara, the characters react to their surroundings, discussing upcoming events like the opening of a canal, which stirs excitement and curiosity about the lives of the local populace. Symbolically rich in both its setting and characterizations, the beginning sets the stage for a tale that contrasts cultural ignorance and the quest for understanding amid colonial tensions and personal ambitions."
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