Subject

France -- History -- Charles VII, 1422-1461 -- Fiction Books

Best books

Mark Twain

Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc — Volume 1

"Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc — Volume 1" by Mark Twain is a historical novel published in 1896. Presented as translated memoirs of Joan's fictional page, Louis de Conte, the novel chronicles her extraordinary journey from peasant girl to military commander. Through the eyes of her childhood friend and secretary, readers witness Joan's divine visions in Domrémy, her bold mission to restore France's rightful king, and her brilliant military campaigns that defied seasoned generals and drove back English forces.

Mark Twain

Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc — Volume 2

"Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc — Volume 2" by Mark Twain is a historical novel published in 1896. Narrated by a fictional childhood friend and secretary to Joan, the story follows her extraordinary rise from peasant girl to military commander. Volume 2 continues Joan's campaign as she leads French armies to victory against the English, culminating in the coronation of Charles VII. Through this intimate first-person account, Twain presents Joan's courage, wisdom, and divine mission while depicting one of history's most remarkable figures.

Charlotte M. (Charlotte Mary) Yonge

Two Penniless Princesses

"Two Penniless Princesses" by Charlotte M. Yonge is a historical novel set in the late 19th century. The story revolves around two young princesses, Eleanor and Jean Stewart, who face the challenges of their royal status within the troubled Scottish court. Captured and confined in Dunbar Castle, they yearn for freedom and the joy of life beyond the dreariness of their surroundings, particularly longing for their sister Margaret, who has been married into the French court. The opening of the novel introduces us to the sisters in Dunbar Castle, where they share dreams of escape and adventure. Amid the bleakness of their captivity, they are preoccupied with thoughts of royalty and love, and their desire to reunite with Margaret drives the narrative. The sisters are expressed as strong characters; Eleanor is wistful and imaginative, while Jean is practical and steadfast. Their discussions reveal their hopes and frustrations, as they navigate the dangers of their situation, including threats from warlike nobles eager for connections with royalty. As the story begins, they are on the cusp of a significant journey towards their destiny, filled with anticipation and trepidation.

Andrew Lang

A Monk of Fife
 Being the Chronicle Written by Norman Leslie of Pitcullo, Concerning Marvellous Deeds That Befell in the Realm of France, in the Years of Our Redemption, MCCCCXXIX-XXXI

"A Monk of Fife" by Andrew Lang is a historical novel set in the early 15th century. The narrative revolves around the life and experiences of Norman Leslie, a Scottish monk who recounts his adventures and observations during a tumultuous period in France marked by the Hundred Years' War and the rise of Jeanne d'Arc, also known as the Maid of Orleans. The story provides a unique Scottish perspective on a historical figure and events that significantly impacted France. The beginning of "A Monk of Fife" introduces us to Norman Leslie, who reflects on his upbringing in Fife and his formative experiences, including his mother's death and a fateful encounter with a sailor. Troubles arise when Leslie unintentionally becomes involved in a violent altercation during a game of golf, prompting him to flee to France. This leads to his engagement with Jeanne d'Arc's story, as he determines to chronicle the events he witnessed during a critical time for both France and Scotland. The opening sets the tone for an adventure filled with themes of honor, identity, and historical significance, inviting readers into a richly woven historical tapestry.

Mark Twain

Johanna d'Arc: Kertomus hänen elämästään ja marttyrikuolemastaan

"Johanna d'Arc: Kertomus hänen elämästään ja marttyrikuolemastaan" by Mark Twain is a novel published in 1896 that recounts the life of Joan of Arc. Presented as translated memoirs by Joan's fictional page Louis de Conte, the story follows her journey from a precocious peasant girl in Domrémy through her divine calling to save France. The narrative tracks her rise as a military commander leading armies to victory, her role in crowning Charles VII, and ultimately her trial in Rouen, revealing both historical events and fictionalized details of her remarkable life.

Recently surfaced classics