Subject
Devon (England) -- Fiction Books
Best books
R. D. (Richard Doddridge) Blackmore
Perlycross: A Tale of the Western Hills
"Perlycross: A Tale of the Western Hills" by R. D. Blackmore is a three-volume novel published in 1894. Set in eastern Devon around 1830, the story follows the scandal that erupts when Squire Sir Thomas Waldron's body is stolen from his grave on the night of his funeral. Dr. Jemmy Fox, who loves the squire's daughter Inez, becomes the prime suspect in the desecration, threatening both his reputation and his hopes for marriage as the mystery divides the village.
Eden Phillpotts
Sons of the Morning
"Sons of the Morning" by Eden Phillpotts is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a rustic landscape, focusing on characters like Honor Endicott and Christopher Yeoland, who navigate their relationships and responsibilities in a changing world. The themes of nature, humor, and the consequences of lineage and inheritance play significant roles in shaping the narrative and the lives of the characters. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a serene pastoral setting dominated by a magnificent beech tree, symbolizing strength and resilience. Honor Endicott is portrayed as a lively and humorous woman, while Christopher Yeoland embodies a charming mix of ambition and idleness. Their playful banter hints at their deep connection and hints at the romantic tensions that will unfold as they grapple with their inherited legacies and the burdens that come with them. The narrative style is rich in descriptive language, painting an immersive picture of the Devon countryside and establishing a backdrop for the personal and societal challenges ahead.
Eden Phillpotts
The Virgin in Judgment
"The Virgin in Judgment" by Eden Phillpotts is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces us to a rural setting characterized by the life and struggles of the Bowden family, particularly focusing on David and his sister Rhoda, as they navigate their relationships and the expectations of their community. The narrative delves into themes of love, family loyalty, and the contrasts between tradition and personal aspiration. At the start of this novel, we find ourselves in the desolate beauty of Ringmoor Down, where a sense of impending change hangs in the air. The opening scenes depict the everyday lives of the Bowden family, highlighting the dynamics between David, who harbors unspoken intentions towards Margaret Stanbury, and Rhoda, who is devoted to her dogs and aligned with the natural world around her. As night falls, we witness a life-altering moment when David proposes to Margaret during a private meeting in Dennycoombe Wood, setting into motion a chain of events that promises to test their bonds and aspirations in the face of familial and societal expectations.
Eden Phillpotts
Storm in a Teacup
"Storm in a Teacup" by Eden Phillpotts is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a rural Devon setting and revolves around the complexities of love and relationships, particularly focusing on the marriage between Medora Dingle and her husband, Edward. As the narrative progresses, it explores themes of discontent, self-awareness, and the tension between individual desires and societal expectations." "At the start of the book, the setting is established along the picturesque Dart River, introducing the characters of Medora, Edward Dingle, and their friend Jordan Kellock. Medora is depicted as a restless young woman, feeling a disconnect in her marriage as she perceives her husband as immature and lacking depth. The dynamics of their relationships suggest an undercurrent of unresolved tension, particularly as Medora seems to navigate the implications of her feelings for Kellock, who remains very much a friend. Through vivid descriptions of the surrounding landscape and lively dialogues, the opening chapters set the stage for an exploration of interpersonal conflicts and the quest for personal satisfaction amidst the trials of domestic life."
Anthony Trollope
Rachel Ray
"Rachel Ray" by Anthony Trollope is a novel written in 1863. It tells the story of a young woman whose engagement to a promising suitor is threatened by unfounded rumors and religious disapproval. Her stern Evangelical sister and local clergymen cast suspicion on her fiancé's character, forcing Rachel to break off their correspondence. As gossip spreads through their Devon community and her beloved remains mysteriously absent, Rachel must navigate the conflicting demands of family loyalty, religious propriety, and her own heart's desires.
Anthony Trollope
The Parson's Daughter of Oxney Colne
"The Parson's Daughter of Oxney Colne" by Anthony Trollope is a novel written during the mid-19th century, a time associated with the Victorian era. The book primarily explores social class dynamics, love, and personal sacrifice through the lens of a young woman navigating her emotions and societal expectations in a rural English setting. It delves into the life of Patience Woolsworthy, the parson's daughter, and her interactions with the local community and a visiting captain. The story centers around Patience Woolsworthy, who has been raised in a secluded parsonage with her antiquarian father and a close friend, Miss Le Smyrger. As they interact with Captain John Broughton, a fashionable young man, Patience grapples with her feelings for him and her understanding of love and social status. Despite her deep affection for Broughton, she is initially skeptical about their compatibility due to their vastly different backgrounds. After a whirlwind of emotions and a brief engagement, Patience ultimately decides to break off the relationship, recognizing the importance of personal integrity over societal expectations. The novel concludes with Patience embracing her role within her community, underscoring themes of self-awareness and the complexities of true love.
John Trevena
A Drake by George!
"A Drake by George!" by John Trevena is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Captain Francis Drake, a larger-than-life character who moves to the village of Highfield and establishes himself as a local authority figure. Alongside him is his wife, Mrs. Drake, their lazy nephew George, and a host of eccentric supporting characters who add both humor and chaos to their lives. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Captain Drake as he arrives in Highfield, instantly making a stir with his imposing presence and grand plans to take control of the parish. Through a series of humorous encounters, we learn about his domineering personality, his unexpected family dynamics, and his aspirations to leave a mark on the village. The narrative quickly reveals that while he seeks to impose order, his larger-than-life persona often leads to humorous misunderstandings and conflicts with the quirky residents of Highfield, setting the stage for the unfolding drama and comedy in the book.
Henry Williamson
Tarka the otter : $b his joyful water-life and death in the country of the two rivers
“Tarka the Otter: His Joyful Water-Life and Death in the Country of the Two Rivers” by Henry Williamson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers on the life of Tarka, an otter, following his adventures and struggles in the rivers, meadows, and woodlands of rural England. The story is told from the animal’s perspective, offering detailed observations of otter behavior and the natural world, while also depicting the challenges faced by wildlife in a landscape shaped by both nature and humans. Readers can expect a vivid and immersive account of animal life, full of beauty and peril, without a sentimental or anthropomorphic approach. The opening of “Tarka the Otter” introduces the reader to the richly described river landscape, where otters and other animals live among the changing rhythms of water, weather, and hunting. The story begins with Tarka’s mother, recently hunted by hounds, as she finds refuge and gives birth to her first litter, including Tarka. Through lyrical and precise prose, Williamson follows the early months of Tarka's life—from his first moments as a blind cub, learning to explore the world, to his tentative steps into water and encounters with other wildlife. The narrative details both the joys of play and the persistent dangers—such as predatory birds, hunting dogs, and human-set traps—that threaten otter life. This beginning section paints a vivid and unsentimental picture of the natural world, alive with its cycles of survival, predation, and discovery.
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