Subject
British -- Spain -- Fiction Books
Best books
Arthur W. Marchmont
Sarita, the Carlist
"Sarita, the Carlist" by Arthur W. Marchmont is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Ferdinand Carbonnell, who finds himself embroiled in the complicated political intrigues of Spain as he navigates familial relationships and the dangerous world of the Carlists. The narrative suggests a rich blend of romance, political drama, and personal conflict as Ferdinand encounters his cousin Sarita Castelar and must grapple with unexpected familial obligations and a tumultuous past. The opening of the novel introduces Ferdinand Carbonnell, who faces the repercussions of a woman’s preference as his family plots for a match between him and a wealthy widow. Suddenly thrust into a diplomatic role, he discovers a deeper familial connection to the Quesadas in Madrid and is drawn into a web of political secrecy and familial history, including the troubling legacy of his uncle. Shortly after his arrival, he is mistaken for a Carlist leader and nearly suffers serious consequences due to a case of mistaken identity. It is Sarita Castelar, the stunning cousin he meets, who rescues him from a dire situation, hinting at their shared family ties and the looming political machinations that will entwine their fates. The tension between personal aspiration and political loyalty sets the stage for this engaging tale of love, loyalty, and upheaval.
Anthony Trollope
John Bull on the Guadalquivir From "Tales from All Countries"
"John Bull on the Guadalquivir" by Anthony Trollope is a novel set in the late 19th century, during the Victorian era. The book revolves around themes of romance, cross-cultural encounters, and the complexities of courtship, as it explores the experiences of an Englishman named John Pomfret who travels to Seville, Spain, in pursuit of his love, Maria Daguilar. The narrative navigates through cultural contrasts between the English and Spanish societies, particularly in the context of marriage and romantic expectations. The story follows John Pomfret as he travels to Spain to rekindle his relationship with Maria, a woman connected to his family's trading business. Initially, John is filled with romantic notions about Spain and his love for Maria, but his journey quickly becomes a series of misunderstandings, cultural clashes, and comedic situations, particularly highlighted by his awkward encounter with a local nobleman, the Marquis D’Almavivas. As John grapples with feelings of inadequacy and jealousy, he eventually learns that his relationship with Maria is grounded in mutual affection rather than the transactional nature of their families’ business ties. The novel culminates in John overcoming his insecurities, allowing for a genuine connection with Maria, revealing that true romance often lies beyond the expectations set by society.
James De Mille
A Castle in Spain: A Novel
"A Castle in Spain" by James De Mille is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in Spain, primarily following a group of travelers who find themselves intertwined in a web of adventure, romance, and conflict amid the backdrop of political upheaval. The main characters include Ashby, an Englishman with fiery intentions to claim love amidst obstacles, and various figures surrounding his romantic interests, including Katie Westlotorn and the jealous Captain Lopez. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to a bustling train station in Madrid as Ashby anxiously awaits the arrival of Katie Westlotorn. The scene is set with a diverse array of travelers, including a fussy father, a motherly figure, and the captivating young lady who captures Ashby’s heart. As tensions rise between Ashby and Captain Lopez, who also has his eyes set on Katie, the stage is set for romantic rivalries and the complexity of relationships amid the turbulent environment of their journey. The narrative captures the vibrant atmosphere of Spain while delving into themes of love, jealousy, and adventure, ensuring a story rich with emotional depth and intrigue.
J. C. (John Collis) Snaith
Fortune
"Fortune" by J. C. Snaith is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a young man who sets out on an adventurous quest for his fortune, bravely leaving his home and the comforts of life behind. As he journeys to a foreign land, he encounters challenges, both physical and moral, while grappling with his youthful ideals and the stark realities of life. At the start of the novel, the protagonist embarks on a journey from his hometown, full of optimism and youthful exuberance. He reflects on his upbringing and resolves to find fortune in a distant land. However, as he sets off, he quickly encounters hardships, notably the harsh climate and the desert landscape that threatens his spirit. His kindness, shown through his charity towards an old woman, complicates his financial situation. Eventually, he finds himself at a decrepit inn, where he meets Sir Richard Pendragon, an enigmatic Englishman with a boisterous demeanor, who challenges his perceptions and engages him in a battle of wits and swords, setting the stage for further adventures.
Maurice Hewlett
The Spanish Jade
"The Spanish Jade" by Maurice Hewlett is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story elements suggest a historical adventure set in 19th-century Spain, weaving through themes of love, revenge, and cultural identity. The narrative begins with two contrasting protagonists: Estéban, a young, impetuous Spanish man on a quest fueled by vengeance, and Osmund Manvers, an English gentleman exploring the Spanish landscape for pleasure. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Estéban, who rides through the sunlit plains of Castile, contemplating a dark mission to find and confront a young woman named Manuela. He feels a mixture of anger and longing for her after she abandoned him at a fair. Shortly after, the point of view shifts to Osmund Manvers, an English traveller enjoying the sights and sounds of Spain. As the two characters' paths begin to intertwine, the tension builds, suggesting a tale rich with conflict and emotional depth, set against the backdrop of a vivid Spanish landscape. The stage is set for a story that explores the complexities of human relationships against societal and personal struggles, promising both romance and drama.
William Le Queux
Whither Thou Goest
"Whither Thou Goest" by William Le Queux is a romantic novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Guy Rossett, the son of the Earl of Saxham, who wishes to marry Isobel Clandon, a woman of modest means, despite his father's vehement opposition driven by social class prejudices. As Guy is assigned a position at the British Embassy in Madrid, the narrative unfolds with themes of love, family loyalty, and the turbulence of societal expectations. At the start of the novel, the tension is palpable as the Earl of Saxham learns of his son Guy's engagement to Isobel, who he regards as unworthy. The Earl's scheme to send Guy abroad serves as both a dramatic uprooting for the young lovers and a catalyst for future conflict. The opening chapters introduce various characters, such as Guy’s sister, Lady Mary, who supports her brother's pursuit of love, and hints at dangerous political intrigue through intersecting narratives involving anarchists in Spain and Guy’s upcoming diplomatic role, setting the stage for both romantic and thrilling developments in the story.
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