Subject
British -- Portugal -- Fiction Books
Best books
Rafael Sabatini
The Snare
"The Snare" by Rafael Sabatini is a historical novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story begins in an atmospheric setting where Lieutenant Butler, a flawed but honourable officer in the British army, becomes embroiled in a disastrous incident at the convent at Tavora in Portugal during the Peninsular War. The narrative explores themes of misunderstanding, military life, and the complexities of duty and honour, particularly through Butler's experiences and the ensuing consequences of his actions. At the start of the book, Lieutenant Butler is introduced during a foraging expedition, where his carefree and reckless nature is evident, leading to his critical decision to indulge in wine at the home of a hospitable steward instead of fulfilling his military obligations. This indulgence results in a drunken escapade that tempts him into a foolish raid on a convent, fueled by his misguided beliefs about the monks' hoarded wine. However, the raid inadvertently sparks a violent reaction from the local populace, leading to chaos and severe repercussions that threaten both Butler’s life and the reputation of the British forces in Portugal. As the opening unfolds, both the character dynamics and unfolding conflicts hint at the broader political landscape of the war, setting the stage for deeper explorations of loyalty, betrayal, and the human condition amidst warfare.
Arthur W. Marchmont
In the Name of the People
"In the Name of the People" by Arthur W. Marchmont is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Ralph Donnington, an Englishman who arrives in Lisbon with a dual purpose: to pursue a romantic interest in the beautiful Miralda Dominguez and to explore business opportunities related to mining concessions in East Africa. As he navigates his quest for love and fortune, he becomes embroiled in the political unrest of the city, facing danger and intrigue along the way. At the start of the narrative, Ralph writes a letter to his sister, detailing his arrival in Lisbon and his eagerness to reunite with Miralda. However, his initial excitement quickly turns to peril as he finds himself caught in the chaos of a street riot, where he witnesses the brutality of the police and the desperation of the mob. Following this tumultuous introduction, Ralph’s determination to see Miralda leads him to unexpected dangers, including a confrontation with armed assailants holding a mysterious woman captive. This encounter sets the stage for a series of dramatic events involving political conspiracies, romantic entanglements, and the growing threats posed by the unrest in the city.
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