Subject
Canada -- History -- To 1763 (New France) -- Fiction Books
Best books
William Kirby
The Golden Dog
"The Golden Dog" by William Kirby is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set during the mid-18th century, the narrative unfolds primarily in Quebec, amidst the backdrop of the colonial struggle between the French and English empires. The story features a cast of characters including Count de la Galissonière, the Governor of New France, and various military officers, as they attempt to fortify Quebec against perceived threats while navigating their social and personal lives. At the start of the novel, the Governor, Count de la Galissonière, engages in a fervent exchange with his friend, Peter Kalm, as they admire the beauty of Quebec. It is clear that the city is under threat, as knowledge of impending war between England and France looms. The count reflects on the deep commitment of the Canadians to defend their land, while discussions among officers highlight both camaraderie and the political complexities of their time. As the opening chapters progress, we meet various key characters, including Amélie de Repentigny and Colonel Philibert, whose intertwined fates suggest potential romance and tension, encapsulating the themes of loyalty, honor, and the harsh realities of war.
Arthur Conan Doyle
The Refugees A Tale of Two Continents
"The Refugees" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the 17th-century Huguenot persecution in France, focusing on the intertwined lives of Amory de Catinat, a soldier in the Blue Guard of Louis XIV, and his cousin Adele Catinat, the daughter of a prosperous Huguenot merchant. As the narrative unfolds, it explores themes of love, loyalty, and the struggle for dignity amidst religious and societal turmoil. The opening of the book introduces us to Amory and Adele as they share a tender moment in her father’s house in Paris. Their conversation hints at the tensions of the time, particularly concerning the impending arrival of soldiers mandated to quarter in her father's home. The exchange is abruptly interrupted by the arrival of Amos Green, an American visitor who brings a sense of the wild frontier to the refined Parisian setting. The chapter closes with a brewing conflict when Adele's father is targeted by the dragoons, escalating into a crisis that underscores the harsh realities of persecution faced by the Huguenots. This historical tableau sets the stage for an exploration of personal and political conflicts as the characters navigate the tumultuous landscape of their world.
Gilbert Parker
The Seats of the Mighty, Complete
"The Seats of the Mighty" by Gilbert Parker is a historical novel written in the late 19th century that explores the complex and tumultuous period surrounding the conquest of Canada during the Seven Years' War. The story is centered around Captain Robert Moray, an officer embroiled in the struggles between British and French forces in North America. The novel delves into themes of patriotism, romance, and the fierce conflicts between loyalties, particularly through Moray's relationship with Alixe Duvarney and his adversarial interactions with the French nobleman Monsieur Doltaire. At the start of the novel, we meet Moray, who has been a hostage in Quebec after his capture. The opening chapters set the stage for the unfolding drama as Moray learns about the death of General Braddock, a setback for the British forces, which arcs tensions in his loyalty to England. He is drawn into a complex web of intrigue and danger involving Doltaire, who seems to be orchestrating an insidious game, using Moray as a pawn. As the narrative progresses, Moray's feelings for Alixe deepen while he navigates threats against his life and his honor. The opening portion not only establishes the historical backdrop but also introduces key characters that will shape Moray's fate amidst the beauty and treachery of the time.
Gilbert Parker
The Trail of the Sword, Complete
"The Trail of the Sword, Complete" by Gilbert Parker is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. The story intertwines the lives of key characters amidst the backdrop of the colonial struggles between the French and English in North America, focusing particularly on the adventures and quests of Pierre Le Moyne of Iberville and Jessica Leveret, set against the vibrant and tumultuous history of the era. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Pierre Le Moyne of Iberville, a young envoy from Quebec who arrives in New York to meet with the governor. His entrance is marked by a humorous exchange with Jessica Leveret, the governor's ward, establishing a budding connection between the two. As the narrative unfolds, themes of adventure, romantic tension, and conflict emerge, particularly revolving around Iberville's mission and the challenges posed by rival factions and an impending threat from a renegade. The presence of historical figures and the vivid setting provide a rich tapestry against which personal dramas and larger political intrigues play out, hinting at the complexities faced by individuals during this period of colonial expansion and conflict.
Alfred H. Engelbach
The King's Warrant: A Story of Old and New France
"The King's Warrant: A Story of Old and New France" by Alfred H. Engelbach is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book is set during the tumultuous period of the Seven Years' War, focusing on the conflicts between New France and New England. Central to the story are the characters of Isidore de Beaujardin, a young French nobleman, and the orphan Marguerite Lacroix, both navigating the dangers and uncertainties of war in colonial North America while dealing with personal trials. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the backdrop of the Seven Years' War, detailing the tensions and skirmishes that have erupted in the Americas even as the mother countries maintain a state of nominal peace. As we meet Captain Réné Lacroix on his deathbed, he expresses concern for his young daughter Marguerite's future, prompting his friend Valricour to promise to care for her. This initial setup emphasizes the intersection of personal and political conflicts, setting the stage for Isidore's subsequent journey, his encounter with various factions, and a significant encounter with a Canadian woodsman, Jean Baptiste Boulanger, as they navigate the turbulent landscape marked by both brutal warfare and human connections.
H. (Henry) Bedford-Jones
The Star Woman
"The Star Woman" by H. Bedford-Jones is a historical novel set in the early 18th century. The story follows Harry Crawford, a character caught in the tumult of the colonial struggles in North America, as he navigates encounters with pirates, indigenous peoples, and the intrigue surrounding a mystical artifact called the Star of Dreams. The novel blends elements of adventure and exploration against the backdrop of historical events, weaving a tale of freedom and self-discovery. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to Crawford, who is isolated in a remote location, reflecting on his loneliness and the chaotic times he lives in. As he prepares for a meager meal, he is unexpectedly confronted by a Micmac Indian bearing a treacherous gift, leading to chaos as pirates arrive, and Crawford learns about their intentions. The dialogue reveals Crawford’s complex personality—a man of principles who does not align himself easily with either side of the ongoing conflicts. This rich introduction sets the stage for his subsequent adventures, hinting at a blend of high-stakes action, moral dilemmas, and the pursuit of personal freedom against a stark wilderness landscape.
Arthur D. Howden (Arthur Douglas Howden) Smith
The doom trail
"The Doom Trail" by Arthur D. Howden Smith is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds against the backdrop of political intrigue and conflict in the 18th century, focusing on Harry Ormerod, a fugitive from justice and a former supporter of the exiled Stuart cause. Throughout the narrative, themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complexities of personal identity in times of upheaval take center stage as the protagonist navigates various dangers while pursuing justice and redemption. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Harry Ormerod, who finds himself entangled in a violent altercation in London's foggy streets, narrowly escaping capture by the watch before being aided by Robert Juggins, an alderman. The prologue sets a contemplative tone, reflecting on the fate of the Iroquois League and the sweeping changes brought by English settlers. As the narrative progresses, Ormerod, now living in the household of Juggins, learns about the pressing political tensions of the time, including conspiracies against the Crown and the looming threat from a rogue trader, Andrew Murray, who aims to manipulate trade relationships for his gain. Ormerod's journey is marked by personal discovery and the reawakening of his commitment to his homeland, setting the stage for his upcoming challenges in America.
Gilbert Parker
The Trail of the Sword, Volume 1
"The Trail of the Sword, Volume 1" by Gilbert Parker is a historical novel written during the late 19th century, specifically in the 1890s, which captures the historical struggles between the French and English in North America. Set against the backdrop of the early colonial period, the book delves into themes of adventure, conflict, and romance, centered around characters embroiled in the complexities of interpersonal relationships amidst national rivalries. The story primarily follows Pierre le Moyne de Iberville, a young French envoy from Canada, as he navigates the political tension in New York while delivering his father's message to the English governor. Alongside Iberville is Jessica Leveret, the governor's ward, whose charm captivates both Iberville and George Gering, a young Englishman, leading to a love triangle. As the narrative unfolds, Iberville must contend with external threats, including a nefarious pirate, Edward Bucklaw, who seeks to kidnap Jessica amidst the brewing conflict. Through daring escapades, romance, and the backdrop of colony politics, the tale encapsulates the bravery and passions of its characters while exploring the larger implications of colonialism and national identity.
Gilbert Parker
The Seats of the Mighty, Volume 4
"The Seats of the Mighty, Volume 4" by Gilbert Parker is a historical novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story unfolds through the eyes of Captain Robert Moray, an officer caught in the tumult of the French and Indian War, as he navigates the complex political and personal conflicts associated with his captivity in Quebec. The opening of the novel introduces Captain Robert Moray as he interacts with a self-important French Governor, who holds him captive yet displays arrogance about his authority. As Moray contemplates his fate, he expresses a desire to walk upon the ramparts rather than suffer in solitude, showcasing his rebellious spirit. The narrative presents his longing for freedom and the complexities of his relationship with Alixe, the daughter of the man who will be his temporary captor. As tensions rise and the world outside stirs with impending conflict, Moray's strategic conversations with guards and allies hint at plans for an escape, setting the stage for the adventures and trials that await him in the quest for both personal freedom and honor.
John Trevena
The Plowshare and the Sword: A Tale of Old Quebec
"The Plowshare and the Sword: A Tale of Old Quebec" by Ernest George Henham is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story takes place in 1637 during the early colonial days of Quebec, and it revolves around themes of empire, conflict, and the struggles between European settlers and indigenous peoples. The main character, Abbé La Salle, is depicted as a martial priest embedded in the complexities of warfare and diplomacy, showing a blend of ambition and conflict with both settlers and native tribes. The opening of the novel introduces a spring evening in Quebec where tensions are brewing as the French military presence contemplates the threat posed by the Dutch and indigenous allies. As La Salle navigates the political landscape, he encounters Onawa, a young woman of the Iroquois, setting the stage for themes of cultural interplay and conflict. The chapter highlights La Salle's ambitions for power and influence, alongside an impending conflict involving a Dutch captain, Van Vuren, and hints at underlying tensions between the French and English in the region. This establishes a rich backdrop of historical drama interwoven with personal ambition, foreshadowing broader conflicts to come.
Gilbert Parker
The Seats of the Mighty, Volume 2
"The Seats of the Mighty, Volume 2" by Gilbert Parker is a historical novel written during the early 20th century. The narrative follows Captain Robert Moray, who finds himself entangled in the intricacies of love, rivalry, and political intrigue during the colonial conflicts between the French and British in Canada. As a hostage and officer, Moray's journey unfolds amidst themes of loyalty, honor, and the harsh realities of warfare. The opening of the novel introduces us to Captain Moray, who is imprisoned and reflects on his solitude, injuries, and thoughts of Alixe Duvarney, a woman he holds dear. As he processes memories of their moments together, a blend of nostalgia and melancholy permeates his thoughts. Moray’s interactions with Gabord, his jailer, and his determination to cling to hope despite dire circumstances provide a glimpse into his character. Alixe's letter further reveals her growing feelings and the dangerous political maneuvers surrounding them, setting the stage for the unfolding drama as Moray faces an uncertain fate while trying to navigate the obstacles posed by powerful foes like Monsieur Doltaire.
Gilbert Parker
The Seats of the Mighty, Volume 3
"The Seats of the Mighty, Volume 3" by Gilbert Parker is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows Captain Robert Moray, an officer in the Virginia Regiment, as he navigates the turbulent political and social landscape of New France during a time of conflict and intrigue. The story encapsulates themes of loyalty, power struggles, and human emotion, engaging readers with Moray's challenges and relationships with other characters, especially those like Doltaire and Alixe, who significantly influence his fate. The opening of the novel presents a gripping scenario where Captain Moray, imprisoned in a cell, contemplates his dire situation amid growing tensions within the ruling powers of New France. As he struggles with isolation and the uncertainty of the actions among his fellow captives and political adversaries, we witness his interactions with Voban, a barber who brings news from the outside world about Alixe and the intrigues surrounding prominent figures in the colony. The dynamic between Moray, Doltaire, and the local elite, along with the dangers posed to Alixe, set the stage for unfolding drama, suggesting that Moray’s attempts to find a path to freedom will inevitably entwine with these looming threats and intrigues as the story progresses.
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